If you struggle with your weight, you’re not alone. In fact, more than 30% of all U.S adults meet the criteria for being obese. Americans spend billions of dollars annually on weight loss products, but obesity is still on the rise. People are even turning to surgery as a weight loss option. This is a drastic measure and can cause unwanted side effects. Unfortunately, excess weight is not just a cosmetic issue. Being overweight is a risk factor for many conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. The good news is that maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk and it’s never too late to get started. People seeking to address their weight concerns are turning to acupuncture as a natural and effective way to approach weight loss.

A traditional approach to healing. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) take a holistic or whole-body approach to health. This ancient form of healthcare works to restore the balance and flow of the body’s Qi, or vital energy. According to TCM, the reasons why people gain weight, or find it difficult to lose weight are numerous. Your acupuncturist is well versed in uncovering the root causes or imbalances that have affected your weight. Your acupuncturist will also take into consideration other factors that may have led to weight gain, including your lifestyle, and emotional and well-being. By taking your whole self into account, you and your acupuncturist can get into the root of your health concerns, rather than just treating the symptoms.

What will my acupuncturist do? During your first visit, your acupuncturist will take an extensive health history and perform various exams. At the completion of your first visit, your acupuncturist will provide you with a comprehensive diagnosis and an explanation of your treatment plan. Your treatments will focus on correcting any underlying imbalances in your body, and will also help to support you in reaching your weight loss goals. Based on your unique symptoms, your acupuncturist will choose to concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs. For example, restoring balance to the flow of Qi in the stomach can help promote good digestion and suppress an overactive appetite. Emotional issues, such as anxiety and stress, both of which can lead to overeating, can be addressed by balancing the Liver.

A partnership for better health. It is important to remember that acupuncture is not a “quick fix.” BY working with your acupuncturist, and committing to long-term goals, you will experience positive changed in your overall health, including maintaining a healthy body weight.
In addition to acupuncture treatments, your practitioner may also recommend other lifestyle changes. Whether you want to lose a few pounds or a significant amount, people are turning to acupuncture as a natural and effective way to approach weight loss. By working together with your practitioner, you can help your body regain its natural balance—and start taking steps toward the true health and vitality.